Cupping and other Chinese medicine bodywork therapies help improve circulation, reduce pain, and increase mobility for all body types.

Cupping refers to the practice of using glass or plastic cups to create a suction effect on the skin to increase blood circulation, loosen muscles and connective tissue, and create a soothing effect on the nervous system. Cups can be left stationary or can be moved over the surface of the skin.

Cupping is the only type of body work that I have found to be impactful and effective when it comes to truly releasing tissue at the deepest level. I’m an evangelist! After going once a week for three months, then every two weeks for three months, there was a lightness in my body I hadn’t felt for over a decade. I swear not only does it help the physical body, but it also sucks the weird energy in our bodies that is linked to our soul. For any athlete, casual to professional, I believe cupping is a must for our regular health routines. 

— Rebecca, ultra-trail runner and skier

In addition to cupping, we also offer other bodywork therapies, including:

Tui-Na

Tui Na is a type of Chinese therapeutic massage. The name “Tui Na” is made up of two words, “Tui”, meaning to push, and “Na”, meaning to grasp. In a Tui Na session, the practitioner employs a range of vigorous techniques and manipulations using finger pressure, hand movements, and arm and elbow pressure. These movements can address a wide range of musculoskeletal, internal medicine, and psychological issues. Tui Na is an appropriate therapy for all ages, and is effective pediatric treatment.

Gua Sha

Gua sha is the practice of press-stroking or scraping the surface of the skin to produce intentional redness and petechiae, known as “sha”. Although “sha” can look alarming the first time you see it, the practice of gua sha is safe and non-invasive, and can be used on patients of all ages. Gua sha has beneficial anti-inflammatory and immune system protective effects, and can be useful in a variety of acute and chronic conditions. It works wonders for knotted muscles!

Plum Blossom

Plum blossom is a technique of penetrating the skin surface using a seven-star needle hammer, a flexible plastic handle with a gathering of small needles on one end. Plum blossom is an effective means of treating shingles and other dermatological conditions, tight muscles, and acute injuries such as ankle sprains.

Ready to try cupping and tui-na for the first time? Book a new patient cupping and tui-na appointment!